Jon Flora, Fry’s Food Stores president, dies

September 18, 2013

Jon C. Flora, president of Fry’s Food Stores in Arizona, passed away unexpectedly as the result of pulmonary thrombo embolism/deep vein thromposis Sept. 13. He was 58 years old.

“We are deeply saddened to lose Jon, our dear friend and extraordinary leader,” said Dave Dillon, Kroger chairman and chief executive officer. “Jon leaves a legacy of enthusiasm and passion for doing what’s right for our customers, our neighbors and our associates. Jon C. FloraHe touched the lives of countless people in our company as well as throughout our industry and community. He was a true ‘servant leader’ who mentored many associates at every level of our business. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. Jon is survived by his two grown children, Byron and Jessica.”

Throughout his career, Mr. Flora helped Kroger and Fry’s strengthen relationships with customers, neighbors and suppliers alike. “He was a compassionate leader who led the Fry’s Division through many changes,” said Rodney McMullen, Kroger president and chief operating officer. “Jon’s deep industry knowledge and innovative skills engaged and inspired those around him. He was a great teacher and friend who also was eager to learn from others. Jon was a hands-on leader and his favorite place to be was in the stores with his 18,000 Fry’s associates. We will all miss him deeply, he was an unbelievable human being.”

Mr. Flora joined Kroger in 1971 as a clerk and bottle boy at Dillon’s Stores (a Kroger Division). During his career, he held a number of leadership positions with the company, including vice president of merchandising, vice president of the Southwest Division, president of the Michigan and Great Lakes divisions, and senior vice president and officer presiding over seven of Kroger’s supermarket divisions. In 2007, Mr. Flora was named president of Fry’s.

In addition to his remarkable professional career, Mr. Flora was an active community volunteer and was recognized for his numerous contributions in helping to fight hunger throughout Arizona. The Phoenix Business Journal recognized him as 2013 Valley’s Most Admired Leaders and the 2012 Executive Volunteer of the Year.